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The focus turns to an important round of continental clashes. A pair of compelling fixtures take center stage in the lineup, as sides battling for important standings as the group phase continues.

A Question Mark Over Chelsea

Which iteration of Chelsea will show up on Italian soil? Their last Champions League performance was a statement, a comprehensive 3-0 victory against the Catalan giants that stood as a high point for Enzo Maresca's reign. Yet, form has proven elusive since then. A credible tie with their London rivals was followed by a defeat at Leeds, followed by a dour stalemate at Bournemouth means they arrive with momentum sapped.

They face a dangerous Atalanta who are tied in the standings alongside them. La Dea suffered a heavy opening defeat in Paris yet have gone undefeated in Europe ever since, contrasting somewhat modest results in Serie A.

Tottenham's Test

Much like their rivals, Tottenham have been notoriously unreliable. A heavy loss in Paris, sandwiched between disappointing losses in the Premier League, piled pressure on boss the Danish coach. However, recent domestic outings – a win and a draw from six – have provided some stability.

Tonight, they host Czech opponents still searching for their first victory in this year's tournament. These are exactly the type of fixture which Spurs need to be won for any hopes to climb into the top eight, particularly given upcoming games versus Borussia Dortmund and Frankfurt still to come.

Elsewhere Across Europe

The drama extends beyond England and Italy. One notable game, Barcelona will look to bounce back from their defeat when they host Eintracht Frankfurt. Meanwhile, free-scoring PSV pose a major challenge for the backline of Atlético Madrid. Finally, AS Monaco hosts Galatasaray in an encounter that has all the makings to be a goal-fest. Every game begin this evening.

A pivotal night in the group stage is upon us, as clubs striving to secure their path into the latter stages.